Employee Profile: Katy, International Relocation Coordinator

Katy specializes in arranging moves to this popular area for expats and transferees, and she works with clients to make sure their pets' vaccines, paperwork, flights and more are all properly in order.

A pet lover and former wedding planner, Katy is a natural fit for this unique position and she has made a huge difference in the lives of dozens of pet owners during the stressful time of moving.

Here's more about Katy!

Why did you apply to work at PetRelocation?

I had been working in the wedding planning industry before, but was looking for something different. And also I love animals. Believe it or not, coordinating a move is pretty similar!

It’s all about working with clients who are happy but usually really nervous, too, and maybe a little overwhelmed. Calming their fears while making sure all the other pieces of the puzzle are falling into place is something I just really love doing.

Moving overseas is a big deal. And just like planning a wedding, I think a lot of people don’t realize how much there actually is to do. I really love having my checklist and making sure everything is ticked off from the day they realize they need to move until the day they are reunited with their pets in their new home!

What has been your favorite story to tell about working at PetRelocation?

I moved a celebrity’s pet. Like, a major celebrity! I won’t say who, but it’s definitely a fun story to tell. I called my mom and made her guess who while giving a few hints.

Katy's pup Teddy

What’s a key piece of advice you would give to someone who is just starting to plan their pet’s move?

You really have to be careful when doing your research. International pet travel requirements change often, so make sure what you’re referencing is current. Then, once you know the requirements make sure your pet is up to date on the required vaccines.

It can be a little overwhelming but (and this may be the most important) try not to stress. Pets are so perceptive and can tell when something is up. So, if you’re acting nervous they are going to get nervous, too.

What do you think will change about pet travel in the next five years?

With all the technology I’m very excited to see what is to come! People are becoming more mobile than ever and I would love to see the airlines offer more apps for us and our clients to track their pets' journey!

I’m also very interested to see what, if any, changes may go into effect following the Brexit decision.

Be adaptable and be prepared to learn a lot in your first week alone! Also, bring your sense of humor.

Katy and Teddy, hard at work

What do you wish other people knew about the company?

I want people to know how hands on we are and just how very involved we will be once you decide to entrust us with your pet’s journey. Moving across the world is stressful enough. I think we really pride ourselves on making that one piece of the puzzle a little easier for you.

Which famous pet would you love to meet?

I follow so many dogs on Instagram! I really love the Obama dogs, Bo and Sunny!

More Teddy!

What are some of your favorite things to do in Austin?

Austin is so great for food and drink, but also for the outdoors. So I like to do real well rounded activities like take a 7 mile hike at the greenbelt and then finish the day off by eating my weight in tacos at Chuy’s!

Hollywood wants to make a movie about your life—who do they cast to play you?

Morgan Freeman, obviously.

Thanks, Katy!

Future PetRelocation employees and pet travelers: Learn more about the PetRelocation Team and contact us if you're ready to start planning your pet's relocation.